Scotland’s Finn Russell banned for three weeks after red card in Six Nations win over France

The fly-half showed remorse and acceptance that his actions in the victory over France constituted foul play, which factored into the disciplinary committee’s decision

Finn Russell, of Scotland, scuffles with France hooker Julien Marchand (AFP)

Finn Russell has been handed a three-week ban after the Scotland fly-half’s red card in the Six Nations victory over France rugby.

Russell was given his marching orders when he led with a forearm towards the neck area of Brice Dulin, it left Gregor Townsend’s side up against it with 10 minutes remaining, though they held on for a memorable 27-23 win to clinch a runner-up place in the final classification.

Russell was given a reprieve with the suspension cut in half because of the findings by the disciplinary committee that there were no aggravating features.

While Russell was applauded for swiftly admitting his actions were worthy of foul play, alongside his disciplinary record and attitude before and during the hearing.

Russell also showed clear remorse, which factored into the final decision over the punishment.

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Russell will now be absent for three club matches for French side Racing 92, including Sunday’s visit of Edinburgh in the Champions Cup.

Townsend was thrilled by his side’s attitude to dig in despite Russell’s red card and a sin bin for Stuart Hogg.

“It’s incredible,” said Townsend. “To break one record is a massive achievement but to do three in our last three away games in the Six Nations shows what a team we have and what a group of players we have.

“We have been really competitive in the last two years in every game we have played in the Six Nations. We have won six games and lost four that have been very close.

“To keep that going in a bit of adversity prior to the match and during the match shows that this team has spirit, has togetherness.

“That win means a lot. It means a lot to them, it means a lot for Scottish rugby, and hopefully for the people in our nation, like the win at Twickenham did.”